Correct Option
The Ibadat Khana, meaning 'House of Worship', was constructed by Emperor Akbar at Fatehpur Sikri in 1575. Its primary purpose was to serve as a hall for religious and philosophical discussions. Akbar invited scholars, theologians, and mystics from various religions, including Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism, to engage in debates. These discussions, typically held on Thursdays, aimed to foster interfaith understanding and explore religious truths beyond sectarian interpretations. This initiative was a significant step in Akbar's policy of religious tolerance and contributed to the development of his concept of Sulh-i-Kul (universal peace) and eventually, Din-i-Ilahi.
Incorrect Options
Option 1: The Ibadat Khana was not a mosque, nor was its primary function to serve as a prayer place exclusively for the royal family. It was a dedicated space for intellectual and religious discourse.
Option 2: The Ibadat Khana was a public hall for debates involving numerous scholars, not Akbar's private prayer chamber. Akbar had private prayer arrangements elsewhere.
Option 4: While nobles might have been present, the Ibadat Khana was specifically designed for discussions among scholars and religious leaders of different faiths, presided over by Akbar. It was not merely a room for nobles to discuss religious affairs among themselves, but a structured forum for interfaith dialogue at the highest level of scholarship.